NASA Explores Laminar Flow Technology to Reduce Fuel Consumption and Lower Airfares

A NASA F-15B testbed jet is conducting high-speed taxi tests with a CATNLF fin, aiming to increase laminar flow and reduce drag. According to AeroTime, this technology could lead to significant fuel savings for Boeing 777 aircraft. The project’s Principal Investigator, Michelle Banchy, notes that laminar flow technology has been studied for decades but faces limitations in application. NASA plans to begin test flights soon, bringing the concept closer to implementation on next-generation aircraft.